Ecumenical News International News Highlights 02 December 2002

Cradle of Christianity a hostage in the Middle East conflict

Bethlehem (ENI). The cradle of Christianity has again become a hostage of the Middle East conflict after Israeli troops seized control of the West Bank city of Bethlehem in response to the suicide bombing that killed 11 people on 21 November. The bomber was identified as a 23-year-old Palestinian from Bethlehem, and his father declared before television cameras that he was proud of his what his son had done. [700 words, ENI-02-0439]

Call for ban on Muslim dress denounced by church leaders in Australia

Sydney (ENI). A suggestion made by a member of an Australian state parliament, the Rev. Fred Nile, that authorities ban Muslim women from wearing traditional dress in public in case they were hiding explosives or guns has drawn strong criticism. "Such remarks are inconsistent with the Christian gospel of freedom and peace," said the Rev. James Haire, president of the Uniting Church in Australia. "We support the right of Muslim women to wear whatever clothing they feel is appropriate in accordance with their beliefs." [420 words, ENI-02-0438]

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